The stand of the Vishwa Hindu Parishad on white water rafting on the Ganga river is an example of the narrow-mindedness the world tried to leave behind ages ago. To berate youngsters for being themselves while enjoying the buzz of great adventure sport betrays a pettiness of thinking. To harbour some sympathy for sadhus and sants who may be disturbed by the high jinks of young people might be understandable. But are these holy people not the kind whose understanding of life goes way beyond such mundane thoughts on minor temporal matters?
Taking upon itself the role of guardian of all things holy, the VHP seems to have felt this sudden urge to clean up the banks of the holy river by prohibiting the visit of young people. Be that as it may, should being together lead to the obnoxious conclusion that everyone is indulging in “obscene activities”? It is time the VHP focused on fulfilling its noble objectives, like providing service in the fields of health and education and removing social evils like untouchability. Leave the kids alone to have a good time.
Tourism is Uttarakhand’s lifeline and among the attractions, besides the fantastic picture-postcard scenery, are the raging waters of the Ganga in full flow, ideal for an adventure sport that does not raise any environmental concerns. Visitors contribute most to the local economy and there is no reason to believe the residents are unhappy about the footfalls save the difficulties in maintaining the pristine nature of the area.
